Daily Archives: October 15, 2011


Thursday, November 10, 2:00 pm – The Gardens of Kyoto

The November meeting of The Garden Club of the Back Bay will take place Thursday, November 10, at 2 pm, at The College Club, 44 Commonwealth Avenue in Boston. Rita Bond will speak on The Gardens of Kyoto. Originally from Brooklyn, New York, and New Jersey, Rita W. Bond is a longtime resident of Simsbury, Connecticut. She holds a Master’s Degree from Teachers College, Columbia University in the teaching of English. Rita studied landscape design at the New York Botanical Garden, and has had her own business as a residential landscape designer. Rita resumed her studies in art, and particularly color, in order to refine her skill as a landscape designer. As she has progressed in her art studies, she has found a new love and a new voice for expressing her creativity and love of the New England landscape. Rita’s illustrated lecture will provide a short history of, and an examination of, the cultural and religious significance of the gardens of Japan, in particular those of Kyoto. She will discuss design principles and plants that can be used here as well. The program will be followed by tea. Members will receive written notice of this meeting in the mail. Non members who may wish to attend ($20 fee) may email info@gardenclubbackbay.org.


Saturday, October 29 and Saturday, November 5, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm – Propagating Trees and Shrubs from Cuttings and Seeds

Need to nurture? Then join longtime Arnold Arboretum propagator Jack Alexander at the Dana Greenhouse at the Arboretum on two Saturdays, October 29 and November 5, from 9 – 4, to learn basic information and techniques for propagating most woody plants. Session One includes a lecture and workshop on seed propagation and construction of a propagation case. Session Two will be a lecture and workshop on hardwood cuttings. You will leave class with numerous cuttings and seeds to care for. To participate, you must sign an Assumption of Risk and Release in order to practice the techniques taught in class. Bring a lunch and beverage. If you own hand pruners, bring them to class. A sharp knife and an apron may also be helpful. You will be collecting propagules from the Arboretum grounds on both afternoons regardless of weather, so dress accordingly and wear comfortable shoes. Fee $180 member, $240 nonmember. Register at www.arboretum.harvard.edu.